The Role of OEM vs. Aftermarket Parts in Collision Repair

August 14, 2025

The Role of OEM vs. Aftermarket Parts in Collision Repair

After a collision, one of the most important decisions you’ll face is what kind of replacement parts should be used to repair your vehicle. This often comes down to a choice between OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts and aftermarket parts. While both options serve a similar purpose, they differ in quality, compatibility, and cost and the decision can have a lasting impact on your vehicle’s performance, safety, and value.

At Morrow Collision Center, we’ve been restoring vehicles with precision and care for over 25 years. Based in Lincoln, NE, we help customers make informed decisions about their repairs and explain how the parts used can affect the outcome. In this blog, we’ll break down the difference between OEM and aftermarket parts and why it matters in the collision repair process.

What Are OEM Parts?

OEM parts are manufactured by the same company that built your vehicle. These parts are made to match the exact specifications of the original parts installed at the factory. OEM parts are designed for perfect fit, function, and compatibility with your vehicle’s make and model.

What Are Aftermarket Parts?

Aftermarket parts are made by third-party companies and are not produced by the vehicle’s original manufacturer. These parts are typically designed to be compatible with multiple makes and models, and they vary in quality depending on the brand.

Key Differences Between OEM and Aftermarket Parts

Let’s take a closer look at how these two options compare in the context of collision repair:

1. Fit and Compatibility

OEM Parts: Guaranteed to fit your vehicle precisely, minimizing the risk of misalignment or installation issues.
Aftermarket Parts: May not always fit as precisely, especially if they’re designed for multiple vehicle types. This can lead to additional labor time or the need for modifications.

2. Quality and Performance

OEM Parts: Match the quality and materials of the original components, offering consistent performance and safety.
Aftermarket Parts: Quality can vary by manufacturer, and some may perform just as well, while others may wear out faster or not meet the same safety standards.

3. Warranty and Insurance Coverage

OEM Parts: Often come with a warranty from the manufacturer and are more likely to be covered by your vehicle’s original warranty.
Aftermarket Parts: May have limited or no warranty and could potentially void certain aspects of your factory warranty.

At Morrow Collision Center, we work closely with your insurance company to determine what type of parts are covered under your policy.

4. Cost Considerations

OEM Parts: Typically, more expensive due to the manufacturer branding and guaranteed fit. (If OEM Parts are preferred for better fitment and performance, the customer may be responsible for the additional out-of-pocket cost.)
Aftermarket Parts: Usually more affordable, which can help lower out-of-pocket costs, especially if insurance doesn’t cover OEM.

So, Which Is Better?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The right choice depends on your vehicle’s age, your budget, insurance coverage, and personal preference. For newer or high-end vehicles, OEM parts may be worth the investment to maintain factory-level performance and value. For older cars or minor repairs, aftermarket parts may offer a cost-effective solution.

At Morrow Collision Center, we walk you through your options and help you choose the parts that meet your needs, without sacrificing safety or quality.

Why Trust Morrow Collision Center?

Located in Lincoln, Nebraska, Morrow Collision Center is a family-owned and operated shop known for quality workmanship, transparency, and customer care. Whether we’re using OEM or high-quality aftermarket parts, our I-CAR certified technicians ensure your vehicle is repaired to pre-accident condition with precision and integrity.

We offer:

Expert collision repair for all makes and models
Limited Lifetime Warranty
Paintless dent repair and full body work
Frame straightening and unibody repair
Help navigating insurance claims
Free estimates and status updates throughout the repair

Get Back on the Road with Confidence

Choosing between OEM and aftermarket parts can feel overwhelming, but with the right collision repair team on your side, it doesn’t have to be. At Morrow Collision Center, we explain your options clearly and stand behind every repair we perform. Contact us today!

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Why Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) is a Game-Changer

July 17, 2025

Dents happen, from rogue shopping carts to hailstorms and minor parking mishaps. But did you know that many dents can be fixed without repainting? Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) offers an eco‑friendly, fast, and cost-effective alternative to traditional dent repair. In this guide, we’ll dive into what PDR is, how it works, and why choosing Morrow Collision Center is the right call for your vehicle. What Is Paintless Dent Repair? Paintless Dent Repair is a method of removing minor dents without the need for traditional body fillers or repainting. Using specialized tools, our technicians carefully massage dents from the back side of the panel, restoring it to its original shape and finish. This process preserves your vehicle’s factory paint and avoids the hassle of color matching. How PDR Works and When It’s Appropriate PDR typically works best on: Small to moderate-sized dents, including door dings, hail damage, and minor creases Areas where the paint remains intact Flat or gently curved panels (doors, fenders, hoods) Here’s the basic process we follow: Damage Assessment – Our team inspects the dent to confirm it’s a good PDR candidate. If the paint is cracked or panel creasing is severe, traditional repair may be recommended. Access Panel Creation – We carefully remove interior panels or trim to access the back of the dented area. Precision Dent Massaging – Using specialized rods and tools, we slowly massage the metal back into shape, monitoring finesse and detail as we go. Finishing Touches – After the dent is removed, any high spots are smoothed out, restoring the panel's factory finish with no paintwork needed. Benefits of Paintless Dent Repair Faster Turnaround Time PDR is often completed in just a few hours or less, compared to days with traditional methods. Perfect when time is of the essence. Cost‑Effective With no need for filler, sanding, or repainting, PDR is often much less expensive than body shop alternatives. Preserves Vehicle Value Maintaining your original factory paint helps prevent potential resale or insurance issues. Eco‑Friendly PDR avoids chemical paints and fillers, making it a greener choice for dent removal. Why Drivers Trust Morrow Collision Center for Dent Repair Choosing the right shop for dent repair isn’t just about price, it’s about peace of mind. At Morrow Collision Center, we’re known throughout Lincoln, NE and surrounding areas for providing fast, honest, and professional service. Here’s what sets us apart when it comes to paintless dent repair: Locally Owned & Customer-Focused We’re proud to be a local business with a reputation built on trust. Our customers return to us—and refer friends because we take the time to explain your options and deliver quality results every time. Honest Assessments Not every dent is right for PDR, and we’ll always be upfront if traditional repair is the better choice. You’ll never get a one-size-fits-all pitch from us. Quick Turnaround Times We know your time is valuable. That’s why we streamline scheduling and work efficiently to get you back on the road as soon as possible. Final Thoughts Paintless Dent Repair is an intelligent solution for minor dents: efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly. Whether you’ve got a fresh ding or want to prepare for resale, PDR can save you time, money, and hassle. Ready to restore your ride? Contact Us to schedule a PDR appointment today!

How to Choose the Right Collision Repair Shop

June 19, 2025

When you've been in a car accident, your first priority—after ensuring everyone's safety—is figuring out how to repair your vehicle. Choosing the right collision repair shop is crucial not only for restoring your car but also for protecting your investment, your time, and your peace of mind. At Morrow Collision Center , we believe that transparency, integrity, and expert craftsmanship should guide every decision. Here’s how to choose a collision repair shop that truly meets your needs—and why Morrow Collision is a trusted choice for drivers in the area. 1. Look for Certified Technicians and High Standards One of the most important factors when evaluating a collision repair shop is the training and experience of their technicians. Look for certifications like I-CAR Gold, which indicate a technician's expertise in modern repair methods. At Morrow Collision, our team includes I-CAR-certified professionals who stay current with the latest industry standards. Whether it’s an aluminum repair or structural framework, we have the skills to get your car back to pre-accident condition. 2. Ask About Insurance Assistance Dealing with insurance after an accident can be stressful. A quality repair shop should help facilitate the process. Our insurance claim assistance makes it easier for you. We work directly with all major insurance companies, helping you navigate paperwork, approvals, and timelines to avoid delays and confusion. 3. Consider the Warranty A reputable shop will stand behind its work. Ask if they offer a warranty—and what it covers. Morrow Collision proudly offers a lifetime limited warranty on all repairs. This means if something isn’t right, we’ll make it right—for as long as you own the vehicle. That’s the kind of peace of mind you deserve. 4. Explore Their Services Not all damage is equal, and neither are repair shops. Be sure the shop you choose is equipped to handle the full scope of your repair needs—from dents and dings to major collision damage and paintwork. We offer a wide range of services at Morrow Collision, including: Frame straightening Paintless dent repair Computerized color matching Auto glass replacement Structural repairs Bumper and panel work Our facility is equipped with state-of-the-art technology to ensure accuracy and a flawless finish every time. 5. Check Their Customer Experience Read reviews, browse testimonials, and see how the shop communicates with customers. Transparency, friendliness, and timely updates should be part of the experience. At Morrow Collision, we pride ourselves on honest, open communication. You can schedule an estimate by phone, and our team will guide you through each step—from estimate to delivery. 6. Evaluate Convenience Factors The right collision repair shop should make your life easier during a stressful time. Do they offer free estimates? Help you get a rental car? Assist with towing? Morrow Collision is committed to making the process hassle-free. We provide: Free estimates Rental car coordination Towing services Flexible scheduling We know you’re busy, so we strive to reduce disruptions and get you back on the road as quickly—and safely—as possible. 7. Look for a Locally Trusted Reputation Finally, consider how long the shop has been in business and what the local community says about it. Morrow Collision has built its reputation on quality, integrity, and community trust. Our mission is simple: provide excellent service and superior results, every time. Final Thoughts Choosing the right collision repair shop is more than fixing your car—it’s about finding a partner who values your safety and satisfaction. If you're looking for a trusted, professional collision repair shop, choose Morrow Collision Center. We’re here to help you navigate the process from start to finish and ensure your car looks—and drives—as well as it did before your accident. Contact us today to schedule a free estimate or learn more about our services.